How Common Are Texting While Driving Accidents?
November 14, 2024
It may feel like one small text, one little message to a friend or loved one. But in the time it takes to look down at a phone, type out a message, and hit “send,” many drivers have gotten into catastrophic accidents with severe—sometimes fatal—consequences.
Texting divides a driver’s attention, takes their eyes off the road, and causes delayed reactions. In Maryland, our car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton have helped many victims of texting-related collisions, and we know just how serious they can be.
How Common Are Texting While Driving Accidents?
Thousands of drivers annually get into devastating accidents because of texting-related distractions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving caused over 3,000 fatalities in the past few years, with a significant portion of those linked directly to texting behind the wheel.
Despite constant warnings and public awareness campaigns, many drivers still take their eyes off the road to check messages or notifications. Despite their false sense of security, research has demonstrated that these few seconds can have life-changing consequences.
Why Is Texting While Driving So Dangerous?
Texting while driving visually, physically, and cognitively distracts drivers: the phone demands that drivers look at the screen, take their hands off the steering wheel, and think about their message rather than obstacles on the road. In fact, according to research from the NHTSA, taking your eyes off the road for five seconds at 55 miles per hour is equivalent to driving the length of a football field without looking.
What Are the Consequences of Texting While Driving?
Our attorneys have seen texting-related collisions cause traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and even fatalities. Not only do victims suffer immediate financial impact, including medical bills and vehicle repairs, but they also need to deal with the overwhelming mental and emotional toll.
Drivers who are liable for texting-related accidents can face significant legal consequences, especially if the collision causes injuries or fatalities. Maryland enforces strict distracted driving laws, which impose fines, license suspensions, and potential jail time, depending on the severity of the accident.
Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident With the Maryland Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton
If you were in a car accident because another driver decided to text, trust the Maryland car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton for legal help. Call us at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or fill out our online form for a free consultation.
We have offices in Baltimore, Glen Burnie, Lanham, and Owings Mills, allowing us to represent clients in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.